The world’s first Chinese theme park promises rollercoaster rides and kids attractions alongside authentic touches such as Oriental gardens and a giant pagoda.

The £100million project, called Visions of China, could bring up to 500 jobs to Rotherham in South Yorkshire after the local authority gave the go-ahead so the park could be open in 18 months.

With up to 1.5 million visitors expected each year, Peter Moore, Visions of China chief executive, said: “Western audiences are fascinated with China. I believe it will be, no doubt, one of the most exciting projects British tourism will have seen for decades.”